Complete Guide to Asphalt Shingles
Everything Myrtle Beach homeowners need to know about America's most popular roofing material - from types and manufacturers to realistic coastal lifespan expectations.
America's Most Popular Roofing Material
Asphalt shingles cover more than 80% of American homes, making them the undisputed leader in residential roofing. Their popularity stems from an unbeatable combination of affordability, versatility, and proven performance. From basic 3-tab styles to premium designer options, asphalt shingles offer solutions for every budget and aesthetic preference.
For coastal South Carolina homeowners, understanding asphalt shingles is essential. While they remain an excellent choice for Myrtle Beach homes, our unique climate presents challenges that affect material selection, installation methods, and maintenance requirements. Salt air, intense UV exposure, high humidity, and hurricane-force winds all impact how shingles perform and how long they last.
At Weather Shield Roofing, we've installed thousands of asphalt shingle roofs throughout the Grand Strand since 2010. As a GAF Certified installer, we understand exactly which products perform best in our coastal environment and how to install them for maximum longevity. This guide shares that expertise to help you make informed decisions about your roof.
80%+
Of US homes use asphalt shingles
20-30
Year coastal lifespan (architectural)
40+
Color options available
130+
MPH wind resistance (premium)
Types of Asphalt Shingles
Understanding the differences between shingle types helps you choose the right balance of performance, aesthetics, and value for your Myrtle Beach home.
3-Tab Shingles
Basic / Economical3-tab shingles are the traditional, entry-level asphalt shingle option. Named for the three tabs cut into each shingle strip, they create a flat, uniform appearance across the roof. While once the most common choice, they've largely been replaced by architectural shingles for primary residences due to performance limitations.
Advantages
- +Lowest upfront cost
- +Lightweight (easier on older structures)
- +Faster installation
- +Widely available
Limitations
- -Short coastal lifespan (15-20 years)
- -Low wind resistance (60-70 mph)
- -Flat appearance, less curb appeal
- -More vulnerable to storm damage
Weather Shield Recommendation: 3-tab shingles are acceptable for rental properties, detached garages, or budget-constrained projects. For owner-occupied homes in coastal South Carolina, we strongly recommend architectural shingles for superior storm resistance and longevity.
Architectural / Dimensional Shingles
Most PopularArchitectural shingles (also called dimensional or laminate shingles) are the gold standard for residential roofing. They feature multiple layers of asphalt laminated together, creating a three-dimensional appearance that mimics wood shake or slate. This construction also provides significantly better durability and wind resistance.
Key Advantages
- +25-30 year coastal lifespan
- +110-130 mph wind resistance
- +Enhanced dimensional appearance
- +Better hides roof imperfections
- +Algae-resistant options standard
- +Increases home resale value
Specifications
- •Weight: 240-350 lbs per square
- •Thickness: 3-4x thicker than 3-tab
- •Warranty: 30-50 years (prorated)
- •Wind warranty: Lifetime with proper install
- •40+ color and style options
Weather Shield Recommendation
Architectural shingles are our top recommendation for 90% of Myrtle Beach homes. When properly installed with a 6-nail high-wind pattern and quality synthetic underlayment, they provide excellent hurricane protection, outstanding longevity, and beautiful aesthetics. For maximum protection, consider impact-resistant architectural shingles that qualify for insurance discounts. Learn more about our residential roofing services.
Luxury / Designer Shingles
PremiumLuxury shingles represent the pinnacle of asphalt roofing technology. These premium products feature extra-thick construction, authentic slate/shake/tile profiles, and advanced color blending for unmatched curb appeal. They're designed for high-end homes where aesthetics and maximum longevity justify the premium investment.
Slate-Look
Mimics natural slate at a fraction of the weight and cost. Popular for historic homes and upscale communities.
Wood Shake-Look
Authentic cedar shake appearance without fire risk or maintenance. Ideal for coastal cottage styles.
Premium Dimensional
Ultra-thick profiles with oversized tabs for dramatic shadow lines and maximum impact.
Specifications
- Lifespan: 40-50 years (coastal)
- Wind resistance: 130+ mph
- Weight: 350-450 lbs per square
- Impact resistance: Class 4 available
- Warranty: Lifetime limited
Best For
- High-end homes and estates
- Historic property restorations
- Homes with highly visible roofs
- HOAs requiring premium aesthetics
- Maximizing resale value
Impact-Resistant Shingles (Class 4)
Recommended for Coastal SCImpact-resistant shingles feature modified asphalt formulations (often with SBS polymer or rubberized compounds) that provide superior resistance to hail, flying debris, and storm damage. They earn UL 2218 Class 4 rating by withstanding a 2-inch steel ball dropped from 20 feet—the highest impact rating available for roofing materials.
Why Choose Impact-Resistant
- 10-30% insurance premium discounts in SC
- Superior hail and debris resistance
- Enhanced flexibility resists cracking
- Longer lifespan (30-50 years)
- Better performance in temperature extremes
Popular Class 4 Options
- GAF Timberline AS II - Armor Shield technology
- Owens Corning Duration FLEX - SBS modified
- CertainTeed NorthGate - SBS polymer
- Atlas StormMaster Shake - Scotchgard protector
- Malarkey Vista AR - NEX polymer
Investment Recovery Calculator
Impact-resistant shingles typically cost 15-25% more than standard architectural. With average SC insurance discounts of 15-20%, most homeowners recover the premium within 5-10 years through insurance savings alone—plus gain significantly better storm protection.
Schedule a free inspection to discuss optionsAnatomy of an Asphalt Shingle
Understanding what's inside your shingles helps you appreciate why quality matters and how different components affect performance.
Fiberglass Mat
The foundation of modern asphalt shingles. This woven fiberglass provides structural strength, dimensional stability, and fire resistance. Premium shingles use denser, heavier mats.
Asphalt Coating
Waterproofing layer applied to both sides of the mat. Quality varies significantly—premium shingles use oxidized or SBS-modified asphalt for better flexibility and longevity.
Ceramic Granules
The visible surface that provides color, UV protection, and fire resistance. Premium granules include copper for algae resistance and reflective coatings for energy efficiency.
Sealant Strip
Thermally-activated adhesive that bonds shingles together after installation. Critical for wind resistance—properly sealed shingles can withstand 130+ mph winds.
Back Surfacing
Fine mineral or calcium carbonate coating prevents shingles from sticking together in packaging and aids in proper installation handling.
Nailing Zone
Reinforced area designed for proper nail placement. Premium shingles feature wider nailing zones and grip technology (like GAF's LayerLock or OC's SureNail) for superior wind performance.
Top Manufacturers Compared
The "Big Three" manufacturers—GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed—produce most residential shingles in America. Here's how they compare for Myrtle Beach conditions.
GAF
North America's Largest Roofing Manufacturer
Timberline Series
Popular Products
- Timberline HDZ
- Best-selling shingle in North America
- Timberline AS II
- Class 4 impact resistant
- Grand Sequoia
- Premium wood shake appearance
Key Technologies
- LayerLock: Mechanical nail-zone bonding
- StainGuard Plus: 25-year algae protection
- WindProven: Unlimited wind warranty
- Time-Release Tech: Gradual algae protection
Warranty Highlights
- Lifetime limited material warranty
- WindProven: No max wind speed
- 25-year non-prorated period
- System Plus: 50-year NPP (certified)
Weather Shield Note: As a GAF Certified Contractor, we can offer enhanced warranties including the System Plus warranty with 50-year non-prorated coverage and lifetime workmanship protection.
Owens Corning
Innovation in Roofing Technology
Duration Series
Popular Products
- Duration
- Flagship architectural with SureNail
- Duration FLEX
- SBS modified, Class 4 rated
- Berkshire
- Premium slate-look designer
Key Technologies
- SureNail: Fabric reinforced nailing zone
- TruDefinition: Enhanced color contrast
- StreakGuard: Copper-infused algae protection
- WeatherGuard: All-weather adhesive seal
Warranty Highlights
- Lifetime limited material warranty
- 130 mph wind warranty (with 4 nails)
- 10-year SureNail wind warranty
- Platinum: 50-year NPP (Preferred)
Coastal Advantage: Owens Corning's SureNail technology provides exceptional wind resistance—the fabric strip in the nailing zone helps prevent nail pull-through, a common failure mode in hurricanes.
CertainTeed
Quality Made Certain. Satisfaction Guaranteed.
Landmark Series
Popular Products
- Landmark Pro
- Premium architectural with MaxDef
- NorthGate
- SBS modified, Class 4 rated
- Grand Manor
- Ultra-premium designer shingle
Key Technologies
- StreakFighter: Copper-based algae resistance
- MaxDef: Enhanced color definition
- NailTrak: Visible nailing line
- ClimateFlex: Flexible in cold weather
Warranty Highlights
- Lifetime limited material warranty
- 15-year StreakFighter warranty
- 110-130 mph wind warranty
- SureStart PLUS: 50-year NPP
Value Proposition: CertainTeed often provides the best value for premium features. Their Landmark Pro offers MaxDef color technology and StreakFighter algae protection at competitive pricing.
Atlas Roofing
Innovation Through Performance
StormMaster Series
Popular Products
- StormMaster Shake
- Class 4 impact, Scotchgard protected
- Pinnacle Pristine
- Scotchgard algae protection
- Legend
- Value-focused architectural
Key Technologies
- Scotchgard: 3M algae protection
- Core4: SBS enhanced polymer
- HP42: High-profile dimensional
- Signature Select: Color blending
Warranty Highlights
- Lifetime limited warranty
- Scotchgard: Lifetime algae warranty
- 130 mph wind warranty
- Pro-Cut: Easy installation
Storm Protection Focus: Atlas StormMaster Shake is specifically engineered for storm-prone regions. The combination of Class 4 impact rating and 3M Scotchgard protection makes it an excellent choice for coastal South Carolina.
Realistic Lifespan in Coastal South Carolina
Manufacturer warranties assume ideal conditions. Here's what you can realistically expect in Myrtle Beach's challenging coastal environment.
Expected Lifespan: Coastal vs. Inland
| Shingle Type | Inland SC | Coastal SC | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Tab Shingles | 20-25 years | 15-20 years | -20 to 25% |
| Standard Architectural | 30-35 years | 25-30 years | -15 to 20% |
| Impact-Resistant Architectural | 35-45 years | 30-40 years | -10 to 15% |
| Luxury/Designer | 45-50 years | 40-50 years | -10% |
Why Coastal Shingles Age Faster
Intense UV Exposure
Myrtle Beach receives 30% more annual UV radiation than inland areas. UV breaks down asphalt binders and accelerates granule loss. South-facing roof slopes age up to 25% faster than north-facing slopes.
Salt Air Corrosion
Salt particles in coastal air attack metal flashings and accelerate granule loosening. Properties within 1,500 feet of the ocean experience the most aggressive salt exposure.
High Humidity
70-80% average humidity promotes algae and moss growth, which traps moisture against shingles. This moisture accelerates granule loss and can lead to premature shingle deterioration.
Hurricane Exposure
Regular exposure to tropical storms and hurricanes causes cumulative damage—even when shingles appear intact. Wind loosens seals and debris impacts weaken granule adhesion over time.
Maximize Your Shingle Lifespan
Proper installation and regular maintenance can add 5-10 years to your coastal shingle roof. Key factors include: 6-nail high-wind installation pattern, quality synthetic underlayment, adequate attic ventilation, annual professional inspections, and prompt minor repairs.
Learn about our roof maintenance servicesMaintenance Requirements
Regular maintenance extends shingle life and helps catch problems before they become expensive repairs.
Spring (March-May)
- Schedule professional annual inspection
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Remove debris from valleys
- Trim overhanging branches
- Check flashing seals
Fall (Sept-Nov)
- Post-hurricane season inspection
- Clear leaves and debris from roof
- Verify gutter drainage before winter rains
- Address any loose or damaged shingles
- Check attic for moisture intrusion signs
After Major Storms
After any hurricane, tropical storm, or severe weather with hail, schedule a professional inspection—even if you don't see visible damage. Storm damage is often subtle: loosened seals, micro-fractures in shingles, and lifted edges that lead to leaks months later.
Important: Document storm dates for insurance purposes. Most policies require claims within specific timeframes, and damage that develops later may not be covered without proper documentation.
Schedule Storm Damage Inspection: (843) 877-5539Maintenance DO's
- Schedule annual professional inspections
- Keep gutters clean and flowing
- Address small repairs promptly
- Ensure proper attic ventilation
- Document conditions with photos
Maintenance DON'Ts
- Never pressure wash shingles
- Don't walk on hot shingles (they're fragile)
- Avoid harsh chemical cleaners
- Don't ignore "small" leaks
- Never cover damaged shingles with coating
Warning Signs of Shingle Failure
Recognizing these signs early can save thousands in water damage repairs. If you notice multiple issues, schedule an inspection promptly.
Granule Loss
Finding granules in gutters or bare spots on shingles indicates UV protection is failing. Some granule loss is normal on new roofs, but significant loss on roofs 10+ years old signals aging.
Severity: Moderate - monitor closely
Curling or Cupping
Edges turning up (curling) or centers dipping (cupping) indicate moisture damage or shingle aging. Curled shingles are vulnerable to wind uplift and water intrusion.
Severity: High - replacement needed soon
Cracked Shingles
Visible cracks allow water penetration and worsen quickly. Common causes include thermal cycling, impact damage, and age-related brittleness.
Severity: High - repair or replace immediately
Missing Shingles
Exposes underlayment and decking to direct weather. Usually caused by wind damage or seal strip failure. Requires immediate repair regardless of roof age.
Severity: Critical - emergency repair needed
Dark Streaks/Staining
Black streaks indicate algae growth (Gloeocapsa magma). While primarily cosmetic, algae traps moisture and can accelerate shingle degradation over time.
Severity: Low - cosmetic, but monitor
Interior Water Stains
Ceiling stains, peeling paint, or attic moisture often indicate roof leaks. The actual leak location may be far from where staining appears due to water travel.
Severity: Critical - professional inspection needed
Not Sure About Your Roof's Condition?
Weather Shield Roofing offers free, no-obligation roof inspections. Our certified inspectors will assess your shingles, flashings, ventilation, and overall roof condition with detailed photo documentation.
Choosing the Right Shingle for Your Home
The best shingle depends on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and how long you plan to stay in your home. Here's our decision framework.
Budget-Conscious
Standard Architectural Shingles
- - GAF Timberline HDZ
- - Owens Corning Duration
- - CertainTeed Landmark
Best for: Tight budgets, rentals, homes you'll sell within 10 years
Best Value
Impact-Resistant Architectural
- - GAF Timberline AS II
- - Owens Corning Duration FLEX
- - CertainTeed NorthGate
Best for: Long-term homeowners, hurricane protection, insurance savings
Premium Investment
Luxury/Designer Shingles
- - GAF Grand Sequoia AS
- - CertainTeed Grand Manor
- - Owens Corning Berkshire
Best for: High-end homes, maximum curb appeal, 20+ year residency
Weather Shield Expert Recommendation
For most Myrtle Beach homeowners, we recommend impact-resistant architectural shingles installed with enhanced coastal specifications: 6-nail high-wind pattern, synthetic underlayment, sealed valleys, and proper ventilation. This combination provides:
25-35
Year Expected Lifespan
130+
MPH Wind Resistance
10-30%
Insurance Savings
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do asphalt shingles last in Myrtle Beach?
What is the difference between 3-tab and architectural shingles?
Which asphalt shingle brand is best for coastal areas?
Are impact-resistant shingles worth it in South Carolina?
How often should asphalt shingles be replaced in coastal SC?
What causes asphalt shingles to fail in coastal areas?
Can I install new asphalt shingles over old ones?
What maintenance do asphalt shingles need in Myrtle Beach?
How do GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed compare?
What is the best shingle color for coastal South Carolina?
Request Your Free Roof Inspection Today
Don't wait for a small problem to become a big expense. Our certified inspectors will evaluate your roof at no cost.
- Complete roof evaluation with drone technology
- Detailed report with photos and recommendations
- Insurance claim assistance if damage is found
- Professional assessment with detailed report
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